Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Cadets down for the count

Some kind of bug has invaded the Air Force Academy, laying low 240 cadets at the officer training school, the academy announced this morning.

Symptoms include those commonly associated with stomach flu and have also affected some active-duty personnel. The academy's release:

As of today, approximately 240 basic cadets have shown symptoms of the illness, including any combination of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This number also includes those who have already recovered and are back to normal basic cadet training and duty activities. Currently, there are approximately 180 basic cadets recovering in isolation at Vandenberg Hall, one of two cadet dormitories. Active duty personnel with possible symptoms have been sent home to recover. Those affected are being treated with oral and intravenous fluids and anti-nausea medication. None have required hospitalization. Medical officials are watching the situation closely, and advise anyone who is experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms to stay hydrated and see a local health care provider if needed. The illness simply has to run its course, Academy medical officials added. The key to prevention is thoroughly washing hands and cleaning potentially infected contact surfaces with a 10-percent bleach solution. “The health and safety of our cadets and all those who live and work at USAFA are our top priority,” said Lieutenant General Mike Gould, Air Force Academy superintendent. “We understand this is a serious matter, and we are taking steps to inform Academy personnel and the community of the precautions necessary to ensure their safety. We will release updates as information becomes available.